Accidents 1901 onwards

This section contains newspaper reports on selected accidents. Please check the indexes in the Accidents Section for details of Inspector of Mines reports and other accidents covered on the site.

16 December 1901

Cage Pit Disaster – Two Miners Killed - A very sad accident occurred Swinehill Pits yesterday, whereby two miners lost their lives and third was seriously injured. While the three men were the cage ready to go down to work an engineman, it is alleged, pulled the wrong lever and sent the cage up instead of down, with result that the cage stuck at the horrells and precipitated Donelly and M'Gowan down the shaft, a distance of 50 fathoms. They were killed, and Stewart, who stuck the top, was taken from his precarious position severely crushed. [Evening Telegraph 17 December 1901]

13 March 1909

Pit Accident – Two Men Killed – On Saturday morning, while men were repairing the roadway in Swinhill Colliery, near Larkhall, belonging to the Darngavil Coal Company, two of their number, named William M'Lean and William Plenderleith, lost their lives. A fall of stones came away from the roof, completely burying them. Relief was at once at hand, but some time elapsed before they were rescued, when M'Lean was quite dead, but Plenderleith lived fully two hours after being rescued. [Scotsman 15 March 1909]

4 September 1911

Fatal Pit Accident - On Monday evening Wm. Marshall, jun. (24), Millheugh, Larkhall, lost his life in Allanton colliery, Hamilton, belonging to Wm. Barr & Sons. He was working at the coal face in the upper Virtuewell seam, when a large stone fell from the roof , and striking him on the head, caused instantaneous death. [Scotsman 6 September 1911]

8 August 1912

Fatal Pit Accident - Early yesterday morning Patrick Johnstone (30), who resided at Meadowhill, Larkhall, lost his life in Skellyton Colliery, belonging to Darngavil Coal Company (Limited.). He was gumming at the machine walls in the Kiltongue seam when a stone weighing over a ton fell from the roof, knocking him to the pavement. At this point the water rises rapidly, and with the fall the pipes became choked, with the result that although Johnstone was severely injured, death was ultimately caused by drowning. His comrades made great efforts to relieve him, but it was three hours before the stone could be removed. It had to be broken in two. Johnstone leaves a widow and four children. [Scotsman 9 August 1912]

17 December 1912

Fatality At Neilsland Colliery – James M'Fadyen, repairer, 5 Douglas Terrace Hamilton, was fatally injured in the Kiltongue seam of No 2 Pit, Neilsland Colliery on Tuesday morning. It appears that he was engaged repairing the roof when a considerable quantity of stone came down on top of him. Help was on hand and he was quickly taken out and conveyed to the surface. Medical aid and the ambulance waggon were summoned but, unfortunately, their services were unnecessary, the injured man succumbing shortly after reaching the pithead. Deceased had been employed with Messrs John Watson Ltd for many years and was a well known and respected workman. He was a widower and leaves a grown up family, one of whom – Mr Hugh M'Fadyen – is cashier at the colliery. [Hamilton Advertiser 21 December 1912]

7 February 1913

Fatal Explosion At A Lanarkshire Colliery - Owing to an accumulation of gas, an explosion occurred yesterday forenoon in the Drumgray seam of Swinhill Colliery, Dalserf, belonging to the Darngavil Coal Company. One man, Edward Lott, residing at Tinto View was found to be missing, and a rescue party, under the manager Mr Robertson, and accompanied by a local doctor, recovered the body. Two of the rescue party were partly overcome by the noxious fumes, and had to be treated at the surface. Lott was married, and leaves a wife and family. [Scotsman 8 February 1913]

21 April 1914

Pit accident at Larkhall - Yesterday morning Robert B. Paterson, colliery fireman, residing at Grangerfield Place, Larkhall, lost his life in. Shawsburn Colliery, Larkhall. He was examining the working places, and in the course of doing so he seems to have fallen down the shaft and been fatally injured. [Scotsman 22 April 1914]

13 November 1914

Fatal Pit Accident – Yesterday morning, John Kent, Larkhall, was fatally injured in Swinhill No 2 Colliery. He was working at the machine walls, when he became entangled in the revolving machinery. He received fearful injuries, which proved fatal. [Scotsman 14 November 1914]

1 January 1915

Larkhall – Colliery Accident – On Friday afternoon, Daniel Kyle, Bog Rows, met with an accident to his left wrist while strapping and repairing a road leading to the face of the pyotshaw seam of Bog Colliery. He was attended by Dr Morrison who stated that the wrist is broken. [Hamilton Herald January 5 1915]

11 February 1915

Fatal Accident - While William Dick, jun., son of Mr William Dick. 40 New Street, was taking a rake hutches to another lift at Broomfield Colliery, Thursday morning he was somehow caught the hutches which ran over him, death being instantaneous. The deceased was member of the Boy Scouts and 16 years age. [Hamilton Advertiser 13 February 1915]

8 May 1915

Fatal Accident at Larkhall - Early on Saturday morning, John Rodger (36), Drygate Street Larkhall, was instantaneously killed in Skellyton Colliery, Larkhall. He was working at the machine walls in the Kiltongue seam when a large stone fell from the roof, crushing him. He was well known in junior football, having played left back for Burnbank Athletic when they won the Scottish Cup, and was capped against Wales in 1902 and Lanarkshire League - Irish League 1901. [Scotsman 10 May 1915]

Fatal Accident – Junior Footballer Killed – About 1 o'clock on Saturday morning John Rodger (36), residing at 97 Drygate Street, Larkhall, was instantaneously killed in Skellyton Colliery, belonging to the Darngavil Coal Company Ltd. It appears the deceased was working at the machine walls in the garves section of the Kiltongue seam when a large stone, weighing about 30 cwt, came away from the roof, and crushed him to the pavement. Assistance was speedily at hand, and by the combined efforts of his fellow workmen the stone was removed. Artificial respiration was resorted to, but it proved of no avail, death having been instantaneous. Dr Caldwell, who examined the body, certified death to be due to fracture of the cervical vertebra. Deceased was the well known junior left back, and for several years played for Burnbank Athletic, being a member of the team when they won the Scottish Junior Cup in 1901. He represented the Scottish Junior Association in the match against Wales in 1902, and was also capped by the Lanarkshire League against the Irish League in 1901. He was a rare defender and played wholeheartedly in every game. He assisted both Larkhall Thistle and Larkhall United in later years, and was in the Thistle team when they won the Scottish Cup in 1908. The funeral, which was of a public nature, took place to Larkhall Cemetery on Monday and was largely attended. Many prominent junior officials were present, as well as representatives from county and local clubs, and many floral tributes from members of the family and friends were received. Deceased was a member of a highly respected family in the town, and the death of one under such tragic circumstances has occasioned widespread sympathy and sorrow. A widow and five of a family are left to mourn the loss, and the sympathy of the community is extended to them in their bereavement. [Hamilton Advertiser 15 May 1915]

14 June 1915

Larkhall – Colliery Fatality – John Ramage, a youth of about 17 years of age, son of John Ramage, 37 Gowanside Place, Larkhall, has died as the result of injuries received early on Monday morning in Machar Colliery. It seems that Ramage, who was a pit bottomer, was working at the Kiltongue seam bottom, when he fell down to the pit bottom, a distance of about 60 feet. He was brought to the surface and examined by Dr Morrison, who ordered his removal to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, by motor ambulance waggon. Ramage died in the Infirmary about 8 o'clock in the evening without having regained consciousness. He was a quiet, industrious lad, and much sympathy is felt for his parents in their sudden and sad bereavement. [Hamilton Herald 16 June 1915]

10 February 1916

Fatal Pit Accident at Larkhall - Early yesterday morning Robert Russell, miner, 61 London Street, Larkhall, and his son, Thomas, residing at High Pleasance, Larkhall, were the victims of a serious accident in the ell coal seam, Bog colliery, Larkhall. They were about to start work when a fall from the roof took place, completely enveloping both men. Help was speedily at hand, and they were rescued. The father lived only a short time, while the son had a fracture to the skull and was removed to the infirmary in a serious condition. Two other workmen had a narrow escape. The Russell family sustained a loss at the battle of Loos, their third son, Alexander, being killed in action. [Scotsman 11 February 1916]

Colliery Accident – A serious colliery occurred in the Bog Colliery ell coal seam early on Thursday morning in which Robert Russell, 54 years of age, 61 London Street, and a married son Thomas Russell, aged 25, 10 High Pleasance, were involved. Two other workmen had a narrow escape. In order to reach their place of work they had to make use of a blind shaft, and while the ascent was in progress a number of bricks became detached and fell on the Russells with disastrous results. Willing hands were ready to give all possible assistance. The elder Russell died on his way to the pit bottom, and his son, who sustained a fracture of the skull, was removed to the Royal Infirmary where he lies in a precarious condition. Russell was an ex-soldier and was in possession of several decorations, including the Egyptian medal and clasp and the Burmese star. In the battle of Loos, Alexander, the third son, was killed, and this additional bereavement has evoked sincere sympathy for the afflicted family. [Hamilton Herald 12 February 1916]

27 April 1916

Dalserf - Fatal Colliery Accident - Between eight and nine o’clock on Friday evening a distressing accident befel David Kirkwood (16) a miner residing at Ashgillhead, Shawsburn. The young man had called at Woodside Colliery, Netherburn, with a companion who was seeking work, and while standing on the pithead he observed that a hutch had been caught in the creeper, and stepped forward to pull it off. As did so he slipped, and his left foot being caught in the machinery he was slowly dragged in. The machinery was stopped at once, and Kirkwood extricated, and on examination, Dr. Rogerson found that his left leg was fractured. The unfortunate was removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, where it was found necessary to amputate the leg, but he succumbed to his injuries on Thursday evening. [Hamilton Advertiser 29 April 1916]

15 May 1916

Larkhall - Fatal Pit Accident - Early on Monday morning John W M'Dade (30), miner, residing at Drygate Street, Larkhall, lost his life in Swinhill Colliery, belonging to the Darngavil Coal Company, Ltd. He was working in the Kiltongue seam, No 2 Pit, at the machine walls, when a large stone fell from the roof, completely enveloping the unfortunate workman and causing instantaneous death. The body was examined by Dr Morrison. Deceased leaves a widow. [Hamilton Advertiser 20 May 1916]

8 July 1916

Larkhall – Fatal Accident – On Saturday afternoon, John Craw, aged 14 years and 11 months, who resided with his parents at 5 Hamilton Street, met with an accident at Dykehead Colliery, which proved fatal. The lad, who was employed at the surface of the pit, was caught in the creeper chain, and received severe lacerated wounds to the hips. He also suffered from shock. He was attended to by Dr M'Nay and afterwards removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, where he died as a result of his injuries about 7 o'clock in the evening. The lad had only started at the colliery on the Monday previous. [Hamilton Advertiser 15 July 1916]

8 December 1916

Dalserf - Fatal Pit Accident. - On Friday last, James Orr (57), miner, residing Cornsilloch, Larkhall, was killed instantaneously while working in the ell coal seam, Cornsilloch Colliery. He was working at the face with his boring machine, when a lipe came away from the roof, falling on his head, and causing death. [Hamilton Advertiser 16 December 1916]

13 & 14 January 1917

Larkhall Colliery Fatalities - Two Men Killed and Two Injured - A distressing accident occurred at Allanton Colliery on Saturday afternoon about one o'clock. Two workmen named Alexander Bone and Robert Miller were engaged in the “black band” seam in No 2 Pit and were preparing to finish their shift when a large stone fell from the roof upon Bone, who was crushed and almost buried under the debris. Miller, who had a narrow escape, summoned assistance and his companion was speedily extricated, but he was found to be dead. The body was removed in the Larkhall ambulance waggon to deceased's home in Meadowhill Rows. Bone, who was about 36 years of age, leaves a widow and 3 young children for whom much sympathy is felt.

Another fatal accident took place in No 2 Pit of the same colliery shortly after noon on Sunday, when a fall from the roof occurred in the main haulage road. At that time three men, Wm. Rodney, roadsman, 34 Portland Place, Hamilton, Malcolm Hill, bogie boy, 38 Raploch Street, and Cornelius Smith, 23 Brown Street, both of Larkhall, were engaged in the seam and all three were caught in the fall. The breakaway was unforeseen, and Rodney was completely buried by it. Assistance was procured and the unfortunate man was extricated, but life was found to be extinct, death having been probably been instantaneous. Hill, who was struck by a large stone, received a fracture of the left femur, and after having been medically attended, was removed to the Royal Infirmary in the ambulance waggon. Smith's injuries, which consisted chiefly of a punctured wound on the left arm pit, were not so serious and he was able to walk home. Rodney was a married man and is survived by a widow and young family. [Hamilton Herald 17 January 1917]

26 March 1917

Fatal Pit Accident – On Monday evening, Alexander Hamilton, mining residing at London Street, Larkhall, received injuries in Ferniegair Colliery Hamilton, from which he succumbed in the Royal Infirmary the same evening. He was working in the virtuewell seam, when a stone came away from the side of the working, falling upon him, and causing severe spinal injuries. He was brought home and attended by Dr Stevenson, who ordered his removal to the infirmary, but he died shortly after admission to that institution. His boy, who was working alongside, had a narrow escape. Deceased was a man of powerful build and fine physique and was 40 years of age. He leaves a widow and family. He was associated with various organisations in the town, and was vice president of the Royal Albert F C for several seasons. He also acted as linesman in club matches, and was representative of the club at the Western League meetings prior to the club withdrawing from the competition. The funeral took place to Larkhall cemetery on Thursday and was largely attended. The death of one in his prime is deeply regretted, and the sympathy of a large circle is extended to the widow and family and other relatives in the loss they have sustained. [Hamilton Advertiser March 31 1917]

12 May 1917

Netherburn – Fatal Accident – A distressing fatality occurred in No 2 South Longrigg Colliery, Netherburn, on Saturday forenoon. Walter F Lee, blacksmith, residing at 13 New Wynd Netherburn, was engaged making repairs at pit mouth, when he fell down the shaft, a distance of 45 fathoms, death being instantaneous. Deceased was 45 years of age, and leaves a widow and family. Mr Lee was a public man of sterling character, having served from 1904 to 1913 in the parish council. He was secretary to the Dalserf Liberal Association and defended Liberalism against all comers. He was well liked and highly respected in the community. The funeral was a public one, and was largely attended by all classes. The sympathy of parish goes out to his wife and family. [Hamilton Advertiser 19 May 1917]

5 June 1917

Dalserf – Distressing Colliery Accident – On Tuesday afternoon, a serious accident occurred at No 5 Swinhill Colliery, belonging to the Darngavil Coal Coy. It appears that four men were being lowered by hand winch down the shaft to dismantle some machinery, when about 11 fathoms from the surface, something seems to have snapped with the result that all the men were precipitated to the bottom, a distance of 24 fathoms. The men were extricated with all speed and medically attended by Dr Morrison, Larkhall. John Small, 38, Swinhill Rows, received serious injuries to back, loin and suffered from internal injuries; Alex Boyd, 24, Swinhill Rows, received compound fracture to right tibia, injury to back and contused wound right eye and brow. Both these men were removed to Royal Infirmary, where Small succumbed to his injuries at 7.40 the same evening. Francis Small, Swinhill Rows and Hugh Sellars, Swinhill Rows, received injuries to back and ankles, and were able to be removed home. [Hamilton Advertiser 9 June 1917]

26 October 1917

Larkhall – Pit Explosion – Three Men Injured – A gas explosion occurred early yesterday forenoon in the coal mine owned by the Darngavil Coal Company at Cornsilloch, resulting in injuries to three men, who were removed to Glasgow Royal Infirmary. The names of the men who received severe burning injuries to face arms and body are:- William Orr, 45, 23 Cornsilloch; Alexander Gordon, 23, 22 Cornsilloch; and John Bell, 38, Hareshaw. [Hamilton Advertiser 27 October 1917]

21 November 1917

Larkhall – Fatal Colliery Accident – Late on Wednesday evening William Hamilton, 35, brusher, residing at 91 London Street, Larkhall, was fatally injured in Dykehead Colliery, belonging to the Summerlee Iron Co. Ltd. He had just fired a shot about 8.45 and was clearing up the roadway, when without any warning a stone weighing about 2 1/2 tons fell from the roof, pinning him to the pavement. It was some time before the stone could be removed and by them Hamilton was dead. Dr M'Nay certified death to be due to fracture of the spine. The family of the deceased have had sore bereavement since March last, and elder brother Alexander Hamilton, was killed in Ferniegair colliery on the 26th March; Corpl. Peter Hamilton another brother, was killed in action on the 9th April and the father of the deceased died on the 10th May. [Hamilton Advertiser 24 November 1917]

24 March 1919

Larkhall – Fatal Result of A Colliery Accident – On Monday morning, William Cairns, 27, miner, residing at 19 Drygate Street, Larkhall, received severe internal and head injuries while employed in the Virtuewell seam, No 2 Dykehead Colliery, Larkhall. He was working at the face on a lope filling a hutch of coal when it moved away. In endeavouring to stop the hutch it overturned upon him, causing the injuries. He was attended by Dr Morrison at the colliery, and on being removed home was seen by Dr D L Stevenson, who ordered his removal to the Royal Infirmary, where he died early on Wednesday morning. Deceased leaves a widow and two children. While the young man lost his own life his heroic effort was the means of probably saving the driver and an oncostman who was repairing the roadway that the hutch would have taken had it got out of control.[Hamilton Advertiser 29 March 1919]

27 December 1919

Dalserf – Pit Accidents – On Saturday forenoon, Andrew Chambers (16), assistant pit bottomer, residing at Cornsilloch Rows, was fatally injured in No 2 Cornsilloch Colliery by being crushed between the cage and the cage seat. He was examined by Dr Rogerson, who found him to be suffering from severe injuries to the abdomen and back. He was removed home but only survived two hours after meeting with the accident. [Hamilton Advertiser 3 January 1920]

29 December 1919

Dalserf – Pit Accidents – Early on Monday morning, Charles M'Millan (56), machineman residing at Green's Buildings, Birkenshaw, Larkhall, met with a fatal accident while at work in the Jewel coal seam of No 2 Turnhill Colliery by a large stone weighing about 25 cwt coming away unexpectedly from the roof and crushing him to the pavement. He was extricated with all speed and latterly examined by Dr Stevenson, Larkhall, who found that he had received a severe compound fracture to the larynx, and death must have been instantaneous. Deceased leaves a widow and large family. [Hamilton Advertiser 3 January 1920]

5 February 1920

Larkhall – Another fatal accident occurred at Woodside Colliery, Dalserf, on Thursday night, whereby Robert M'Donald, who resided at Oak Place, lost his life as the result of a large stone falling on his head from the roof. [The Lanarkshire 7 February 1920]

Larkhall – On Monday afternoon the remains of Robert M'Donald, Oak Place, Ayr Road (?), the victim of the colliery accident at the end of last week were laid to rest in Larkhall cemetery with Masonic honours. There was a good attendance of the members of St [illegible] Lodge of which the deceased was a member and the general public were also well represented. [The Lanarkshire 11 February 1920]

8 September 1920

Larkhall – Fatal Pit Accident – On Wednesday morning, Alexander Flannigan (30), machineman residing at 84 Avon Street, Larkhall, accidentally lost his life in Birkrigg Collier, Larkhall, belonging to the Darngavil Coal Company, Ltd. He was working in the Drumgray section when a large stone of considerable weight came away from the roof, completely enveloping the unfortunate workman and causing instantaneous death. Some considerable time elapsed before the body could be removed owing to the serious nature of the fall. Deceased leaves a widow and six children. [Hamilton Advertiser 11 September 1920]

22 March 1921

Larkhall - Accidents - A fatal accident occurred in the virtuewell seam of Dykehead Colliery, Larkhall, about 11.30 on Wednesday, whereby James Clark, 23, gummer, residing at 47 Avon Street, Larkhall, lost his life. He was taking up his employment when he got in the way of a gelignite shot, and receiving the full force of the charge was instantaneously killed. - On Tuesday, about 7.30, Archibald M'Kane, 48, miner residing at 3 Quarry Street, Larkhall, met with an accident while employed at the coal face in the lower Drumgray seam in No 3 pit Cornsilloch Colliery. A large stone came away from the roof, due to the displacing of a pit prop at the side of the working, and he was struck on the shoulder, causing a simple fracture of the left shoulder bone. He was removed home and there attended by Dr Stevenson. - William M'Millan, 17, driver, residing at 33 Summerlee Rows, who in December last met with an accident in the Pyotshaw seam of Dykehead Colliery and had both legs fractured, beside sustaining other injuries, succumbed to his injuries in the Royal Infirmary on Tuesday morning of this week. [Hamilton Advertiser 25 March 1921]

15 June 1922

While at work at Swinhill Colliery on Tuesday afternoon, Robert Boyd sustained a fracture of the spine and other bodily injuries by a fall of stone. He was removed to the Royal Infirmary. [The Lanarkshire 6 May 1922]

NB Robert Boyd died 15 June 1922 in Glasgow Royal Infirmary

20 September 1922

Dalserf – Fatal Result of An Accident – Early on Wednesday morning, George Morton, 29, residing at 6 Draffan, Kirkmuirhill, received serious injuries while working at a coal cutting machine in the Lower Drumgray seam, Canderrigg Colliery. He had just started the machine when it jumped on striking something hard, and drew Morton amongst the machinery, causing severe injuries. He was extricated with all speed by his fellow workers, and attended by Dr M'Nay, Larkhall, who ordered his removal to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow. The unfortunate workman, however, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday afternoon. [Hamilton Advertiser 23 September 1922]

20 December 1922

Fatal Pit Accident at Larkhall - Thomas M'Cutcheon, miner, Union Street, Larkhall, was instantaneously killed yesterday in Raploch Colliery , Larkhall. He was working in the Virtuewell seam, and preparing to leave off work, when a fall came away from the roof. When extricated , he was found to be dead. Deceased was a married man, and leaves a wife and family. [Scotsman 21 December 1922]

1 February 1923

Brusher Killed in a Larkhall Pit - Neil Wilson (23), brusher, residing at Raploch Street, Larkhall, was instantaneously killed in the Drumgray seam of Allanton colliery, Larkhall, on Thursday night. He was at work when a fall came away from the roof. [Scotsman 3 February 1923]

21 September 1923

Fatal Pit Accident at Larkhall – Early yesterday morning Charles Barnes (26), residing at London Street, Larkhall, was instantaneously killed in the Drumgray Seam, Allanton Colliery, Larkhall. He was engaged on repairing work on the main haulage road when a large stone unexpectedly came away from the roof, striking him on the head, and causing instantaneous death. [Scotsman 22 September 1923]

4 December 1923

Larkhall - Mining Accident - On Sunday morning James Ramage, mining contractor, 41 Raploch Street, Larkhall, and James Hardie, brusher, Henderson House, Machan, Larkhall, were just about to begin their shift, driving a mine in a section of Allanton Colliery, Hamilton, when, through some unexplained cause, an explosion of gas occurred, causing very severe burns to both men. They were medically attended at the colliery, and afterwards removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, where both succumbed to their injuries on Tuesday evening. The men were brothers-in-law, and belonged to Low Quarter. Ramage for a long time was under-manager at Bog Colliery, and then went to Kinneil Collieries, Bo'ness, latterly returning to Larkhall and engaging in mining contracting. They were both well known t a wide circle of acquaintances, and were kind hearted and generous to those of their fellows in trouble and distress. Both were married men and leave wives and young families. [Hamilton Advertiser 8 December 1923]

12 February 1924

Fatal Accident - On Tuesday morning, at 7.30, Thomas F Wilson, 48 years, oncost worker, residing at 10 Lockhart Street, was fatally injured while at work in No 4 section, lower drumgray seam, Canderside Colliery, Dalserf, belonging to Messrs James Nimmo and Company Limited. The unfortunate man was engaged stripping coal at the coal face when a large stone came away from the roof and struck him on the head. Death was instantaneous. The deceased and his family emigrated to America fully a year ago and returned only a few months since. He is survived by a widow, three daughters and one son. The funeral, which took place on Thursday, was largely attended. There were many beautiful floral tributes. [Hamilton Advertiser 16 February 1924]

2 April 1924

Larkhall Pit Accident – Six Men Injured - Several miners were proceeding to their work yesterday morning at Broomfield Colliery, near Larkhall, and when near the fireman's station underground, a canister of gunpowder exploded, severely burning six of the men. The names of the injured are:— Robert Pate, Birkenshaw, near Larkhall; Robert Shearer, James Allan, and James Hamilton all of Stonehouse; Joseph Murray and Nathaniel Chambers , Kirkmuirhill. A local doctor descended the pit, and dressed the men's injuries, after which they were removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow. [Scotsman 3 April 1924]

24 January 1925

Dalserf Pit Accident – One Killed and Two Injured - A serious accident occurred on Saturday in Canderside Colliery, Dalserf, belonging to Jas. Nimmo & Co. (Limited). While engaged in the work of back-brushing a haulage road, three men were caught by a large fall of stone from the roof. The debris having been removed, it was found that John Ferguson, brusher, residing at 17 Muir Street, Larkhall, was dead, and that Matthew Dickie, 18 years, son of Robt. Dickie, minor, Queen Street, Stonehouse, had had his right leg broken and received severe injuries to his back. Patrick Hughes (17) residing with his parents at Lockhart Place, Stonehouse, received injuries to his head, and suffered severely from shock. After receiving medical attention at the colliery, Dickie was removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, and Hughes was conveyed to his home. Ferguson was a married man, and leaves a widow and two young children. [The Scotsman 26 January 1925]

April 1925

Dalserf Pit Accident - Thomas Thomson, under manager, residing at County Houses, Strathaven Head, Stonehouse was seriously injured in No. 2 Colliery, Dalserf, belonging to Darngavil Coal Co. (Ltd.). While on his way to inspect a place where a fall had occurred, in the Jewel section, another fall from the roof caught and severely crushed him. When extricated, it was found that Thomson's thigh was broken in two places, and that he was badly bruised about the head. After receiving medical attention at the colliery, he was removed to the Glasgow Royal Infirmary. [The Scotsman 4 April 1925]

14 September 1928

Larkhall - Fatal Pit Accident - On Friday forenoon last, Thomas Stirrat (28), miner, residing at Percy Street, Larkhall, was fatally injured in Allanton Colliery, Hamilton. Deceased was working in the pan run of the Virtuewell seam when a large stone came away unexpectedly from the roof, knocking the unfortunate man to the pavement, and causing his death. Some time elapsed before the body could be recovered. The deceased was married, and leaves a wife and three children. [Hamilton Advertiser 22 September 1928]

19 September 1928

Larkhall - Colliery Burning Accident - On Monday evening while some miners were at work in Cornsilloch Colliery near Larkhall, a serious burning accident occurred whereby four men received serious burns. After being attended to on the surface all the men were taken to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow. The names of the injured are:- John Craig, 25 Thornlea Place, Burnhead, Larkhall - burns on face, hands and shoulder; William Boal, 35 [illeg] Street, Birkenshaw, Larkhall - burns on face and hands; Robert Knox, Elmlea Cottage, Tinto View, Ashgill - burns on face; William Parkinson, 40 Bogside Road, Ashgill - burns on face and arms. William Boal succumbed to his injuries on Thursday morning. [Hamilton Advertiser 22 September 1928]

NB William Boal died 19 September and John Craig died 21 September 1928 in Glasgow Royal Infirmary

23 January 1929

Larkhall - Fatal Pit Accident - On Wednesday evening, John Stirrat, 40, miner, residing at 14 Cornsilloch, Dalserf, was fatally injured in the Kiltongue seam of Cornsilloch Colliery. It appears the unfortunate man was working at the face, and was cleaning up his place, when a large stone came away unexpectedly from the roof, knocking him to the pavement and causing instantaneous death. Deceased was a married man and leaves a widow and family. [Hamilton Advertiser 26 January 1929]

18 May 1929

Larkhall - Pit Accidents - Gavin Russell, 27, pit waggoner, residing at 10 Burn Street, Hamilton, met with an accident on Saturday morning last at Dykehead Colliery, Larkhall, while engaged shunting waggons north of the colliery weighs. He was moving a 16 ton waggon with a crow bar when it slipped, and the waggon running backwards jammed his right leg between the rail and the waggon, with the result that the foot was badly lacerated. Dr M'Nay attended and the unfortunate man was taken to the Royal Infirmary where the foot was amputated below the knee. - Alexander Russell, 37, brusher, residing at 5 Branceburn Row, Law, met with an accident on Monday evening in Skellyton Colliery, Larkhall, while working in the Lower Drumgray seam. A stone weighing about half a cwt slipped from the roof, causing injuries to the right side of the head behind the ear, and bruises to the right thigh. He was removed home and attended by Dr Galbraith, Law. [Hamilton Advertiser 18 May 1929]

15 April 1930

Larkhall - Fatal Result of Accident - On Tuesday morning, John Ferguson, 45, machineman, residing at Ross's Court, Raploch Street, Larkhall, met with an accident in No 2 Quarter Colliery, Quarter. He was at his breakfast when a large stone weighing about three tons came away unexpectedly from the roof, causing serious injuries to the upper part of the body. The unfortunate man was medically attended at the colliery, and afterwards removed to the Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, where he succumbed to his injuries about midday the same day. Deceased was well-known and highly respected in the district and leaves a wife and family. [Hamilton Advertiser 19 April 1930]

22 October 1937

Lanarkshire Inquiry - Sequel to Pit Explosion – Formal Verdict Returned - The mysterious explosion at Skellyton Colliery, Larkhall, Lanarkshire, on October 22 last, when the colliery manager, David Baxter (51), Leafield, Dalserf, and Charles Laird Lyle (52), the colliery fireman, 35 Strutherhill, Larkhall, met their deaths, was the subject of a Fatal accidents Inquiry by Sheriff Norman Walker and a jury at Hamilton yesterday. Mr J. C. Patterson, Procurator-Fiscal, conducted the inquiry. The Mines Department was represented by Mr T. Ashley, Divisional Inspector for Mines in Scotland and Mr A. Stoker, Inspector for the Western Area of Scotland; the Lanarkshire Miners', Union by Mr J. C. E. Hay, solicitor, Hamilton, and Mr James M'Kendrick, general secretary of the Union; the Scottish Coal Owners' Association by Mr R. Rogerson, solicitor, Glasgow; and Lyle's relatives by Mr John Limond, of the Scottish Shot Firers' Association.

Dr John Parker, Larkhall, said that about five o'clock on October 22, he was summoned to Skellyton colliery and informed that an explosion had occurred. He went down the pit, and later examined the bodies of Baxter and Lyle. Death was due to severe burning and asphyxiation. Dr John Anderson, Glasgow, who conducted a post mortem on the bodies said there was evidence of carbon monoxide in that of Baxter. This showed that he had breathed after the explosion although he was then probably unconscious.

Tests for Gas - Evidence that there had been gas in the section and that the miners had been turned back because of this was given by Samuel Hamilton, oncostman, Scott Street, Larkhall, Hamilton said he had a fireman's certificate, and helped the fireman at the colliery. On the morning of October 22 he went to the Clyde Head Section. He tested for gas and found gas to the extent of 2 1/2% at the coalface, and there was also some at the fan which controlled the ventilation. He informed the fireman Lyle, who, in turn, notified Baxter, the manager who had come on the scene. Hamilton stated that as soon as he detected gas he turned the miners back from .the-section, and no work was done that forenoon. Lyle ordered the fan, which was controlled by an electric motor, to be stopped, and steps were taken to clear the section of gas. About 11.30 the fan was restarted. Witness left for his home about 12 o'clock and was not at the colliery, which was owned by the Darngavil Coal Company (Ltd.), when the explosion occurred. In answer to Mr Stoker, witness said he, saw no reason why there should have been such a quantity of gas in the section: A fall might have caused an accumulation of gas.

Under Managers Evidence - John Brown, under-manager at the colliery, residing at Millburn Cottage, Larkhall, said he last saw Baxter and Lyle alive at 2.30.on the afternoon October 22. About three o'clock he warned the afternoon shift men not to go into the section until they heard from Baxter everything was all right. “I was in the Barrier section when a workman told me an explosion had occurred at the Clyde Head section” Brown continued. “The alarm was raised that Baxter and Lyle were trapped. I made preparations for stretchers, bandages, and smoke helmets, and issued a warning to the rescue brigade. I put on a helmet and left for the scene. There was every evidence of an explosion. I got through as far as the fire, but was still about 200 feet from the men, and the rescue brigade was sent for. Baxter and Lyle were brought out by them They were dead.”

The jury returned a formal verdict;that the deceased sustained injuries as the result of an explosion from which they died. [Scotsman 17 December 1937]

September 1939

Miner Killed On Way to Work - During the black-out late on Monday night, James Lintern Mollon (45), a miner, of 45 Cornsilloch Rows, near Larkhall, was knocked down by a bus in Bothwell Road Hamilton, near Hamilton racecourse. Mollon was carried into the Racecourse Lodge, but died shortly afterwards. He was on his way to work at Palace Colliery Bothwellhaugh, at the time. Mollon is survived by his widow and six children. [Scotsman 20 September 1939]

26 October 1939

Colliery Explosion at Larkhall - Two Miners Dead - Two miners were killed as the result of an explosion in the Drumgray section of Swinhill Colliery, Larkhall, yesterday afternoon. The victims were Archibald Brown (35), of Stonehouse, and John Clark (16), of Birkenshaw, near Larkhall. Brown was a married man and is survived by his wife and one child. Clark resided with his parents. There were other men working in the colliery at the time, but they were not affected by the explosion. With their mouths and noses covered with handkerchiefs and cloth to combat the dense smoke, seven miners made five attempts to rescue the two men. [Scotsman 27 October 1939]